Borderline personality disorder (BPD) and bipolar disorder (BD) are oftentimes confused. Each has similar symptoms of impulsiveness, mood swings, and personality changes.
While these two conditions are similar, they do have their differences. One of the biggest differences between the two is that borderline personality disorder is characterized by self-image issues, managing emotions, and a history of unstable relationships.
On the other hand, bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, causes extreme mood swings which can also include emotional highs.
These two disorders can in fact happen simultaneously but are treated differently. To learn more about the differences and similarities between the two continue reading.
Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
One of the greatest effects of borderline personality disorder is the image you have of yourself. When an individual has BPD they struggle with how they feel about themselves, how they relate to others, and how they behave.
Signs and symptoms of BPD can include:
- Fear of abandonment
- Pattern of unstable relationships
- Impulsive and risky behavior
- Feelings of emptiness
- Mood swings lasting hours to days
- Stress-related paranoia
- Suicidal ideations
- Changes in self-identity
These signs and symptoms can continue to cause other complications in an individual’s life. Areas that BPD can affect include problems in school, intimate relationships, jobs, and social activities.
Causes of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
The causes of borderline personality disorder are not fully understood but there has been research into the causes behind it.
According to research, genetics and brain abnormalities have been seen to cause BPD. Studies conducted on twins and families have shown that personality disorders may be inherited.
Other studies show that there have been changes to certain areas of the brain that affect mentioned regulations, impulsivity, and aggression.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder (BD)
Bipolar disorder involves two key symptoms. An individual with bipolar disorder (BD) will experience emotional highs known as mania or hypomania and severe lows known as depression.
When an individual is experiencing manic episodes, they will encounter feelings of euphoria, bursts of energy, and unusually irritability. On the other hand, depression includes feelings of hopelessness and a loss of interest in activities that they once enjoyed or found joy in.
Symptom of bipolar disorder includes
Manic Episodes:
- Abnormally upbeat or jumpy
- An increase in activity/energy
- Very talkative
- Decreased need for sleep
- Exaggerated sense of self-confidence
- Gets distracted easily
- Poor critical-thinking skills
Depressive Episodes:
- Loss of energy
- Insomnia or sleeping too much
- Loss of interest in things once enjoyed
- Significant weight loss or weight gain
- Suicidal Ideations
- Restlessness or slowed behavior
- Lack of ability to concentrate
- Feelings of worthlessness
Bipolar I
Bipolar I consists of one manic episode followed by hypomanic or depressive episodes. There are times where individuals experience psychosis, triggering a break from reality.
Bipolar II
When an individual has bipolar II disorder they typically experience one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode but never had experienced a manic episode.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder involves you or a loved one having periods of depressive symptoms for at least two years or one year for a child.
Causes of Bipolar Disorder (BD)
Causes of bipolar disorder are similar to those of borderline personality disorder in that they include genetics and biological differences. The exact cause is still unknown but there have been studies to show some potential factors for its causation.
While it is still uncertain, researchers have concluded that there is a significant change in the brain in those with BD. Another factor includes genetics where bipolar disorder is more common amongst people who have a sibling or a parent diagnosed with it.
Get Help with Steps For Change Today!
Don’t give up on yourself if you suffer from borderline personality disorder or bipolar disorder. The majority of people with this disorder do get better with treatment and can learn to live fulfilling lives.
